After more than twenty years behind the microphone at 98 Rock WIYY, Amelia Ryerse is preparing to close out one of Baltimore radio’s longest-running and most recognizable careers.
The longtime personality, known simply as “Amelia” to generations of listeners, announced she will retire at the end of 2026, bringing an end to a remarkable run that helped shape the identity of 98 Rock through multiple eras of the station’s history.
Amelia first joined WIYY in 2003 as part of the station’s evening lineup alongside Mickey Cucchiella before the pair eventually moved into afternoons and later mornings during one of the station’s most memorable stretches. Over time, she became one of the few consistent voices listeners could rely on as programming styles, trends, and talent lineups evolved across the industry.
Following changes to the morning show years ago, Amelia transitioned into other key roles at the station, later settling into middays while also serving as Public Affairs Director and host of “Maryland Perspectives,” further strengthening her ties to the Baltimore community beyond music radio alone.
Hearst executives praised Amelia’s longevity, professionalism, and connection to listeners in the company’s official announcement, noting the impact she made both on the air and throughout the community during her tenure with the station.
For Baltimore listeners, Amelia became more than just another radio personality. She was part of the soundtrack of everyday life — heard during lunch breaks, workdays, commutes, charity drives, station events, and countless moments that connected 98 Rock to its audience in a very real and personal way.
The station plans to celebrate Amelia’s career throughout the remainder of the year with on-air tributes and special recognition leading up to her final sign-off.
In a business known for constant turnover and shifting identities, Amelia’s run at 98 Rock stands as a reminder that authentic local personalities still matter — and when they become part of a city’s fabric, their exit feels bigger than just another programming change.
On The Dial covers breaking radio industry news, including layoffs, programming changes, talent moves, and broadcast trends across the United States.